CAD/CAM - international magazine of digital dentistry

case report _ CAD/CAM in implantology I Fig. 6_Temporary abutment. Fig. 7_Gingiva forming with temporary crown. Fig. 8_Expected emergence profile. Fig. 9_Position of implant axis with regard to bed of crown. Fig. 10_Properly constructed temporary crown. Fig. 11a_Duplicate of temporary crown made from pattern resin. Fig. 11b_Intra-oral examination. Fig. 11c_Impression at implant level. The system was such a breakthrough and the possibilities it offered so enormous that in 2006 I began using the 4820 model. The volume of orders that my laboratory handled increased dramatically, since in contrast to the DeguDent machine, which could initially cut four-unit and later seven-unit bridges, Wieland’s CAD/CAM system allowed me to cut 14-unit constructions from various types of material (plastic, steel, titanium). Based on my own observations and my many years of experience, I can boldly say that the great- est progress in terms of technology has been achieved by scanners. The newer machines have only increased the amount of bone that can be cut andacceleratedcuttingspeed.Itisthescannersthat have ensured revolutionary advances in the devel- opment of CAD/CAM. A major role in the development of scanners has beenplayedby3Shape,whichiscurrentlytheundis- putedleaderinthefield.AmodernuserofCAD/CAM hasallheneedstoensureaperfectprostheticappli- ance, i.e. everything from a temporary crown right up to complex implant-supported restorations. Moreover, all the work can be done today in virtual articulation, which overcomes the technological problems that traditional methods faced. Patients today require fast and inexpensive therapeutic solutions, while ensuring the highest standard of work. CAD/CAM systems help reduce production costs significantly. Hence, the high pur- chase price of investing in a CAD/CAM system pays off.Thelimitlessopportunitiesitoffersforco-oper- ation between laboratories also attest to the supe- riorityofCAD/CAMtechnology.Justasthedevelop- mentofairlinesmaderapidrelocationtoanycorner of the globe possible, so CAD/CAM promotes work between laboratories from all over the world. And herein probably lies its greatest success: interna- tional co-operation that connects people brings its own benefits and satisfaction. There have been many occasions in my professional practice when I have performed work to order without ever being face to face with clients. This is proof of the im- portance of Internet communication in the dental industry. Obviously, the CAD/CAM system is only half the story, for the hands of the dental technician are still irreplaceable when it comes to veneering porcelain I 17CAD/CAM 2_2012 Fig. 9 Fig. 10 Fig. 6 Fig. 8 Fig. 11cFig. 11a Fig. 11b Fig. 7